Bearings in the Food Processing & Packaging Industry

Many sectors are involved in the food industry, each playing a unique role in the supply chain. The agricultural sector is responsible for growing, harvesting, and preparing fresh produce for market, while the foodservice industry focuses on cooking and serving meals in restaurants or catering environments. However, these are distinct from the food processing and packaging industry, which handles food after it has been processed but before it reaches the end consumer or restaurant. Any product that enters a production facility falls under this category.

With global population growth and rising disposable incomes, the demand for safe, high-quality food has never been higher. To meet this demand, companies must invest in advanced food processing and packaging equipment that boosts efficiency, cuts costs, and minimizes downtime—all while complying with strict FDA and hygiene standards. Choosing the right components, such as bearings, is crucial to achieving these goals.

Common Bearings Used in Food Processing and Packaging

Bearings are essential in many industrial applications, but in the food and beverage sector, they play an even more critical role. These bearings are typically made from food-grade stainless steel to ensure they are safe for use in environments where contact with consumables is likely.

Some of the most commonly used types of stainless steel ball bearings in this industry include:

• Unmounted Bearings
• Thermoplastic and Stainless Steel Housings
• Washdown-Ready Bearings
• Specialty Bearings

These bearings are often found in systems like FDA-approved IP69K inserts, IGUS thermoplastic bushings, cam followers, mounted units, roller chains, and V-belts—components that require both durability and cleanliness.

Why Solid Lubricants Are Ideal for These Bearings

Selecting the right lubricant for stainless steel bearings is essential. Using the wrong type can lead to equipment failure or contamination, both of which are serious concerns in the food industry.

Solid lubricants are highly recommended for bearings used in food processing and packaging equipment. They consist of a blend of food-grade grease and supermolecular weight polyethylene. This combination forms a compound that behaves like regular grease before being packed into the bearing. Once heated and cooled, it turns into a solid, resin-like material that remains stable in harsh environments.

Here are some benefits of using solid lubricants over traditional liquid lubricants:

• Extended Lubrication Life: Solid lubricants don’t mix with water or leak, making them ideal for wet or humid environments. This results in longer-lasting performance and reduced maintenance needs.
• Reduced Risk of Leaks: Since they don’t drip or spill, solid lubricants help maintain a clean working environment and prevent debris buildup around machinery.
• Lower Contamination Risk: Solid lubricants keep bearings consistently lubricated, reducing the chance of dry spots that could attract dirt or bacteria.

A great example of a solid lubricant suitable for food-grade applications is P-06 solid grease. It combines USDA H-1 compliant food-grade grease with FDA-approved supermolecular weight polyethylene, ensuring both safety and performance in demanding environments.

Emerson Bearing: Your Trusted Partner in Food Industry Solutions

Looking for reliable bearings for your food processing or packaging operations? Emerson Bearing has been providing top-tier ball and roller bearings for over 50 years. Our extensive experience, global supply network, and expert customer support team allow us to deliver high-quality solutions to customers worldwide.

Our bearings are trusted by leading OEMs and are used in a wide range of food processing and packaging equipment. Whether you're looking to replace worn-out parts or optimize your system, we have the expertise and products to meet your needs.

For more information about our food-grade bearing solutions, contact us today. We also offer free quotes and personalized consultations to help you find the best fit for your application. Let us help you improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and maintain the highest standards of safety and hygiene in your operations.